§ Sandra GidleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health when recombinant genetically engineered haemophiliac treatment will be available to all patients in England. [306]
§ Yvette Cooper[holding answer 26 June 2001]We have already instructed National Health Service trusts to provide recombinant clotting factors to new haemophilia patients and those under 16. Earlier this year we met representatives from the Haemophilia Alliance to discuss the case for extending this provision to all haemophilia patients in England and we are giving this careful consideration. However there is currently a worldwide shortage of recombinant clotting factors and, while this continues, it will not be possible to increase the availability of these products.